Clipping an object mask in Adobe Illustrator involves using a shape to hide portions of another object, revealing only the areas within the clipping path. This is achieved using several methods:
Methods for Creating Clipping Masks
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Using the Menu: Navigate to Object > Clipping Mask > Make. This is a straightforward method for creating clipping masks. Select the object you want to mask (the one you want to be partially hidden), then select the shape that will define the visible area (the clipping path), and then choose this menu option.
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Using the Keyboard Shortcut: A faster alternative is using the keyboard shortcut: Command + 7 (Mac) or Ctrl + 7 (Windows). Again, ensure the object to be masked is selected first, followed by the clipping path shape.
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Understanding the Process: The object you select first will become the masked object. The second selected object becomes the clipping path, determining what portion of the first object remains visible. Only the part of the top object that falls within the boundaries of the bottom object will show.
Creating and Editing Clipping Masks: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Create the Clipping Path: Design the shape that will define the visible area of your masked object. This could be a rectangle, circle, or any custom shape.
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Create the Object to Mask: Create the object you want to partially reveal. This could be an image, text, or another vector graphic.
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Select and Create the Mask: Select the object to be masked first, then select the clipping path shape. Use either the menu option (Object > Clipping Mask > Make) or the keyboard shortcut (Command/Ctrl + 7) to apply the clipping mask.
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Editing the Clipping Mask: You can modify the clipping mask after creation. Simply select the clipping mask (it will be grouped) and adjust the clipping path shape. The masked object will automatically update to reflect the changes. To edit the masked object itself, double-click the clipping mask to enter isolation mode and work directly on the underlying object.
Important Considerations
- Object Order: The order of selection is crucial. The object to be masked must be selected first.
- Modifying the Mask: After applying the clipping mask, modifications to either the clipping path or the masked object will automatically update the result.
- Releasing the Mask: To edit the masked object independently, double click the mask to enter isolation mode. To release the mask completely, select the mask and choose Object > Clipping Mask > Release.
